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Ahead of this weekend’s Wrestle Dream pay-per-view, All Elite Wrestling’s third PPV in the span of just five weeks, the rumor mill began to stir up speculation that prehaps the event, which is advertised as a tribute to New Japan founder, Antonio Inoki, might be more than just another co-promoted card. In truth, it was rather odd that the event popped up more or less out of nowhere, as it was originally announced at the All Out post-PPV press conference, but the annual Forbidden Door show, had just taken place two months earlier and would’ve been a more fitting place to pay tribute to the Japanese founder. If anything, it seemed somewhat random that Tony Khan wanted to host an event in honor of the New Japan founder, but some of the top NJPW names are already booked for events in Japan. It is really an Antonio Inoki tribute without Okada and Tasnahashi on the card? Perhaps, some cameos from other Japanese legends, such as Jushin Liger?
More than anything, this all appears to be a reason for Tony to run somewhat of a New Japan card, and maybe that’s why there are rumors that this pay-per-view is actually going to be used as a platform to announce that he bought the company.
Obviously, it must be recognized that any of this must be taken with a grain of salt. However, it does create different scenarios and how each might affect both promotions. First, we all know that Tony is from a billionaire family so he undoubtedly has enough capital to purchase the organization that Inoki founded in 1972. The question is, would Bushiroad, the parent company of New Japan, be willing to sell the organization that it purchased from The Yuke’s video game company in 2012. Make no mistake about it, without Bushiroad, New Japan probably wouldn’t exist today and much of the surge in popularity that the company had in the modern era was directly because of not only the investment, but also the merchandising from Bushiroad. Reportedly, NJPW was sold for $6.5 million in 2012, which was the conclusion of an extremely rocky period for the organization that began years earlier when Inoki still had ownership. As mentioned, Bushiroad put money into the company that brought back more foreign talent and thus the foundation of the Bullet Club was put into place. That along with the emergence of top tier native talent like Okada gave New Japan big success until the pandemic halted much of its momentum.
As with almost everything, New Japan lost money during the pandemic because of the shutdown and then limited attendance for events. The exit of key talent in recent years, and the possibility that Will Ospreay might departure the promotion to join All Elite in 2024, puts the Japanese league in somewhat of a difficult spot, as it must look to establish the next group of stars that will draw for the company. It goes without saying that there are no guarantees in that process, and in some ways, this is uncharted territory in the Bushiroad era.
According to The Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer, New Japan generated $36.4 million in revenue and $1.6 million in profit last year. Assuming that’s correct, because of the reasons mentioned earlier with the pandemic and the rebuild that was in progress the past few years, the organization has a rather thin profit margin. That means that any dip in business could put them at risk of losing money. If or how much money Bushiroad would be willing to lose is anyone’s guess, but given the current climate of the industry, it might be possible that Bushiroad would look to “cash out” on New Japan if Tony Khan offered the right number. If Khan offered $50 million for the organization, it might be tough for them to turn it down, given the slim profit margin from last year. Granted, Asia TV owns 10% of the organization, but that has more to do with their TV deal and is basically cannon fodder in the grand scheme of things.
While I doubt that New Japan would actually sell the company, I think Tony Khan would definitely be willing to offer major cash for it because it would essentially stamp him in pro wrestling history books. Keep in mind, All Elite Wrestling is still a relatively new project, but ownership of NJPW would solidify Khan’s position in the industry. However, just as some might say that booking an E-fed online didn’t qualify him to launch AEW, just because Tony is a longtime subscriber to The Wrestling Observer, that doesn’t mean that he would have any idea about how to run the Japanese organization. Sure, there’s a niche group of American fans that follow New Japan and in some cases, there can be a profitable niche, but the product must be tailored to the Japanese audience. There’s a different presentation and psychology to the Japanese product so Khan wouldn’t be able to attempt to book it like an AEW event.
The bottom line is, the argument could be made that Tony Khan can’t consistently book quality segments for one weekly show so there’s no reason for him to attempt to purchase another organization on the other side of the globe. As I said, I doubt there’s much to the story, even with the difficult financial aspects New Japan had to endure during the pandemic. Bushiroad has a very popular trading card series in Japan so theoretically, they have the capital to keep New Japan stable throughout the downturn in business.
Tony Khan claimed that there will be a “new era” of All Elite Wrestling for Wrestle Dream, but such announcements have fallen flat, well below expectations, or both in the past so it’s doubtful that the pay-per-view will be the start of a shift for the company. Outside of the New Japan rumors, the bigger story is the fact that Tony Khan is running yet another pay-per-view, and outside of the Bryan Danielson/Zack Saber Jr. and Christian/Darby Allin matches, there’s nothing truly “PPV worthy” on the card. The vast majority of the bouts were thrown together with only a week or two of build up, and outside of the two previously mentioned contests, there’s not much of a selling point that would give fans a reason to spend another $50 on an AEW pay-per-view in the span of just five weeks.
The bigger problem might be that with the increase of the number of pay-per-views and the addition of another two hours of television for Collision, it’s very possible that there’s an over saturation of AEW content that could eventually hinder the expansion of the audience.
What do you think? Share your thoughts, opinions, feedback, and anything else that was raised on Twitter @PWMania and Facebook.com/PWMania.
Until next week
E mail email@example.com | You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook, & Threads @jimlamotta89


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Their cookies are vegan, gluten-free, baked in solar ovens and prepared by a pair of rural women in Jalna district of Marathwada. Pune-based startup Kivu, which set out to tick ethical boxes with their product, finds itself riding the wave of conscious eating in the post-COVID society.
The founders, Vaibhav Dugar and Dr. Minal Kabra, had started with a self-investment of Rs 6 lakh, and the company recorded a turnover of Rs 33 lakh in 2020-21.
The time that Kivu realised their product would do well was three months after they launched in December 2019. The first lockdown was announced — and their cookies flew off the shelves as the public went on a hoarding spree. “In the subsequent weeks, we saw a huge bump in our sales. People stopped going to retail stores because of fear. We used to be in the traditional retail space but, during the pandemic, we turned our main focus to online,” says Dugar.
They are present in 18 cities — 72 stores — as well as across online portals.
“As a dentist, I was concerned that the patients, especially children, from the cities as well as the rural areas of Maharashtra who had bad eating habits. Their sugar intake was high and I felt that this is because the children don’t have better options,” says Dr Kabra. Solar cooking was a tradition in their family and her husband, Vivek Kabra, an IIT Bombay alumnus, has created an advanced solar cooker for which he has applied for patent. “I used to make cookies for family functions, such as Diwali, and my husband encouraged me to turn it into a profession,” she says.
After almost four years of R&D, Dr Kabra and Dugar churned out their first commercial batch of cookies. Their range includes cinnamon cookies, ginger lemon cookies and rajgira coconut cookies. The solar ovens have baked 1,400 kg of cookies so far. “We use jowar, bajra and other natural ingredients. There are no artificial flavours and the beauty of the solar oven is that it keeps the natural taste intact so you can taste the ginger in the ginger lemon cookies. The cookies also retain the natural benefits of vitamins,” says Dr Kabra.
As India acquires a taste for healthy eating, Dugar adds that the market and opportunities are huge. “People are moving away from maida and dairy. It is the right time to be in this domain as consumers are very well read. But, the industry is also unorganised,” says Dugar.
Coming up is a line of savouries as well as more options in cookies.
“The cluster in Jalna was the pilot, and the intent is to create 10 such clusters in Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh, among others, by 2025,” says Dugar. The challenge for star cookies is sunshine — sometimes there isn’t enough of it. “During summer, we create larger batches so that we don’t fall short in monsoon,” adds Dr Kabra.
They have cracked the recipe, and the market is coming back for more.

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Zynga has announced that after 11 years of being active the original FarmVille game will be shut down on Facebook, due to the discontinuation of Flash support on the social media site. The date of closure will be December 31st, and players will be able to make in app purchases up until November 17th, though doing so seems a bit pointless given how little time is left before FarmVille’s closer. Zynga has stated players should use any in game credits as soon as possible, so they do not disappear forever. In a statement, Zynga wrote:
Dear valued player,
Following an incredible 11 years since its initial launch back in 2009, we are officially announcing the closure of the original FarmVille game on Facebook. As previously stated, Adobe will stop distributing and updating Flash Player for all web browsers, and Facebook will stop supporting Flash games on the platform completely after December 31st, 2020. FarmVille will therefore be directly affected as a result of this.
We’re aware that many of you have been with us since the very beginning, helping to build an incredible global community of players over the years who’ve enjoyed this game just as much as we have. For that we say thank you.
In advance of sunsetting the game, we would like to point out that in-app purchases will be available up until November 17, at which point the game’s payment system will be completely turned off. Thereafter the game will not be accepting any in-app payments and any refunds will not be processed during this time. FarmVille will, however, continue to be playable until December 31st, 2020, at which point it will be shut down completely.
Any remaining credits that you have during this period should be used before December 31st, 2020. We are also working on fun in-game activities to be announced soon that are designed to make your remaining time with FarmVille even more enjoyable. We hope that the in-game experiences we’ve developed over the years have provided you with the highest level of entertainment that we strive to fulfill here at Zynga.
Farmville 2: Tropic Escape, and Farmville 2: Country Escape are still available to play, with FarmVille 3 set to launch on mobile.


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Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) represented the largest number of external administrators’ reports in 2018, according to a recent Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) report, which also identified industry sectors at highest risk. Here's how this could affect your business.
Companies with fewer than 20 employees accounted for 78% of recorded insolvencies
84% had assets of $100,000 or less
39% had liabilities of $250,000 or less.
The industries most at risk were
business and personal services, whichaccounted for the highest number of insolvencies, at 2150
the construction industry was second with 1642 insolvencies
the accommodation and food services industry is becoming more vulnerable with 1064 recorded insolvencies compared to 884 last year.
Risk factors for SMEs
Businesses going insolvent can also put their creditors and suppliers at risk when their customers are unable to pay their bills, but there is an insurance solution available to protect your business.
“Trade credit insurance protects companies against bad debts,” says Michael Woodward, National Practice Leader – Trade Credit at Gallagher. “That is, situations where they are unable to be paid money owed to them because their customer has gone broke. That could be liquidation, administration or receivership.”
When bigger businesses fail it can impact their suppliers and contractors, threatening the smaller businesses' survival.
Trade credit insurance optionsthat protect against non-payment include
whole of turnover– the most popular form of cover where the whole company debtor ledger is covered
single risk– cover could be arranged for one individual debtor. This is beneficial when a contractor is highly exposed, to a single major customer, for example
selective or multi-buyer– certain buyers are selected.
Peace of mind plus opportunity
If you are a supplier of goods and services trade credit insurance can not only help ensure you survive your creditors' businesses failing, it can also provide the flexibility to enable your enterprise to expand.
“Insurers provide higher credit limits for your ultimate customer and that allows your business to grow,” Woodward says. “There is also the potential of freeing up funding lines by using trade credit insurance.”
Gallagher National Practice Leader – Trade Credit Michael Woodward explains how trade credit insurance could help your business.
Want to know more about how trade credit insurance can help you? Let's talk.


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Workers have demonstrated in Chattogram in protest against a decision to keep factories and offices open with the public transport system shut ahead of a strict lockdown over the coronavirus outbreak.
As private cars and motorcycles, rickshaws and freight transports are allowed, huge tailbacks were created in the port city after the protesters blocked the streets in the Tiger Pass area for three hours to 10 am on Wednesday, reports bdnews24.com.
Witnesses said the commuters took to the streets after waiting for transports for long in the rain at the Tiger Pass bend.
No motorised passenger vehicle will be allowed during a seven-day strict lockdown across the nation starting on Thursday. Offices will also remain shut but factories will remain open.
Some restrictions were announced for three days ahead of the strict lockdown. In this period, offices and factories remained open but the public transport system was shut, measures that created trouble for people to go to work and then return home.
“The government announced the lockdown to control the pandemic, but it has allowed production at the garment factories that have most crowds,” said Debesh Chowdhury, a factory worker in Chattogram EPZ.
“It has ordered a shutdown of the public transport system while the offices are open. Many factories have vehicles for the officials, but not for the workers, which has put us in trouble.”
Another worker, Nazma Begum, said they are changing transports to reach factories as the authorities have not arranged transports for them. “We are paying three to four times higher than the usual fare. And we are being late.”
The protesters also blocked buses transporting officials of factories in the EPZ.
An official of a factory said their bus reached the factory at 11:45 am instead of the usual time of 8 am due to the blockade.
Nezm Uddin, chief of Kotwali Police Station, said the roads were empty due to rains. At one stage of waiting for transports, the workers began demonstrating.
Later, the police talked to the workers and the leaders of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association.
The protesters left the street after the BGMEA leaders assured them of transports for commuting.
Syed Nazrul Islam, the first vice-president of BGMEA, denied that protests were linked to keeping factories open amid the lockdown.
“We’ve talked to owners of the factories. They said there was a delay to get transports for the workers as some vehicles were broke down and missed the schedule. It has nothing to do with the lockdown.”
He urged the police to cooperate with the authorities to transport the workers from 6 am to 8 am and from 4 pm to 8 pm every day during the strict lockdown.


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Amazon on Wednesday unveiled the Kindle Fire tablet, a 7-inch device that will cost $199, as well as a $99 touch version of its e-book reader, dubbed the Kindle Touch, and a $79 non-touch Kindle.
The Fire will ship on November 15, but is available for pre-order now.
The Android-based Fire includes an IPS display, an ultra-wide viewing angle, and fast dual-core processor, Amazon chief Jeff Bezos said during a New York press event.
"It's light, easy to hold in one hand, 14.6 ounces, and it has all the content," Bezos said.
Bezos said the Fire will merge all of Amazon's services, including Amazon Web Services, Prime, Kindle, Instant Video, MP3, and the AppStore. He talked up access to content, including 100,000 movies and TV shows, 17 million songs, apps, and full-color magazines. The company's Whispersync service has been extended to movies and TV shows. Buyers will get a free month of Amazon Prime, which normally costs $79 per year.
Like Kindle, content will be backed up in the cloud "so you can delete things whenever you want," Bezos said.
Amazon EC2, meanwhile, will be used for Amazon Silk, a "split browser" that will partially live in the cloud and partially live on the Fire, Bezos said, producing a faster browsing experience. Opera later said that it was was "very flattered" that Amazon launched its Silk browser, but said it had already refined the concept of cloud browsing years ago.
On the e-reader front, Bezos said the Kindle Touch e-book includes an advanced E Ink display, infrared touch interface, extra long battery life, access to millions of e-books, free storage in the Amazon Cloud, Audible integration, and more, including a feature known as X-Ray, which shows the "bones" of a book, or details Amazon thinks a reader would find interesting.
The Wi-Fi Kindle Touch is $99, but Amazon will also sell a 3G version of the Touch for $149. Both Kindles are available for pre-order today and will ship November 21. "We're going to sell many millions of these," Amazon chief Jeff Bezos said during a New York press event.
For those who don't need touch, the $79 Kindle is under 6 ounces and 18 percent smaller than previous Kindles, Bezos said. It's available for order today.
The new Kindles are equipped with Amazon's "Special Offers," which shows ads and deals as its screen saver and on the bottom of its home screen. Versions without Special Offers are available for $109 (non-touch), $139 (Kindle Touch Wi-Fi), and $189 (Kindle Touch 3G).
"Let the fervor begin," Bezos said.
Earlier this week Amazon announced a licensing agreement with Twentieth Century Fox that will add an extra 2,000 movie and TV shows to Amazon Prime, bringing the total number of instant videos to more than 11,000 when the movie and TV shows becomes available later this fall. In July, Amazon also inked a deal with CBS that added 2,000 full-season episodes from 18 of the network's shows.
Amazon tablet rumors have been floating around for months with no real acknowledgement from Amazon about its existence, save for a vague "stay tuned," from Bezos back in May.
Earlier this month, however, TechCrunch said it got a glimpse at the tablet, several week after a Wall Street Journal report said the Amazon tablet would arrive "before October."
Last month, Forrester analyst Sarah Rotman Epps said that at the right price, an Amazon tablet could be a great iPad competitor. She acknowledged that Amazon taking on Apple in the tablet market "is a bit like David taking on Goliath" given the market cap, profits, and cash position of the two companies. But Amazon has a strong brand-name recognition, cloud services, and the Kindle line, among other things, making it "the only credible iPad competitor in the market," she said.
A Tuesday report from Strategy Analytics, meanwhile, found that the iPad captured 80 percent of the U.S. tablet market in the second quarter. Amazon will have a tough, but not impossible, time breaking taking a bite out of that lead, the firm said.
"Provided the pricing, screen size and hardware design are right, Amazon can be one of the main challengers to Apple's dominance," said Neil Mawston, director at Strategy Analytics. "Like Apple, Amazon has a strong brand, compelling content, sophisticated billing systems and widespread distribution. In effect, Amazon's new tablet product represents a good opportunity to place an Amazon shopping cart in the hands of American consumers, offering optimized access to purchasing digital content or physical goods from the Amazon online store."
Price could be a big factor, indeed. The HP TouchPad gathered dust on store shelves until HP lowered the price to $99 for the 16GB and $149 for the 32GB version, prompting a rush of purchases. But that was only because HP was ceasing production and had to get rid of excess inventory. For more, see HP TouchPad Deal Shows Thirst For Good, Cheap Tablets.
For more, see PCMag's first look at the Amazon Fire and the slideshow above and our "eyes on" with the new Kindles. Also check out PCMag's live blog of the Amazon event and the "What the Amazon Tablet Needs to Succeed" slideshow below.
Editor's Note: This story was updated at 1pm Eastern Friday.
For more from Chloe, follow her on Twitter @ChloeAlbanesius.


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Users of Binance card can earn as much as 8% cashback on purchases and invoice funds by way of Mastercard’s huge community of over 90 million retailers worldwide.
Binance is launching a bitcoin rewards card in Argentina.The firm is partnering with Mastercard and Credential Payments to offer market entry and subject the cardboard.Users will get pleasure from 8% cashback on purchases and zero-fee ATM withdrawals.
Binance, one of many main cryptocurrency exchanges, has partnered with Mastercard to launch a rewards card powered by bitcoin and different cryptocurrencies in Argentina, in keeping with a press launch.
Argentina would be the first nation to realize entry to Binance Card because the product is at present in a beta part, however plans to aggressively increase within the close to future are imminent. The card is issued by Credential Payments and can enable new and present Binance customers in Argentina with a nationwide ID the flexibility to make purchases and pay payments with bitcoin by leveraging Mastercard’s community of over 90 million retailers worldwide.
Users of Binance Card will acquire as much as 8% cashback on purchases whereas have zero charges for ATM withdrawals. For the retailers, bitcoin is transformed into fiat currencies in actual time making the transaction seamless for each retailers and customers.
“Payments is without doubt one of the first and most evident use circumstances for crypto, but adoption has plenty of room to develop,” mentioned Maximiliano Hinz, common director of Binance in Latin America.
“By utilizing the Binance Card, retailers proceed to obtain fiat and the customers pay in cryptocurrency they select,” Hinz continued. “We imagine the Binance Card is a big step in encouraging wider crypto use and international adoption and now it’s accessible for customers from Argentina.”
Additionally, ought to customers wish to handle their Binance Card on the go, examine transaction historical past, or entry buyer assist, a dashboard within the Binance App and on the trade’s web site will enable fast and easy accessibility to take action.
“Our work with digital currencies builds on our robust basis to allow alternative and peace of thoughts when individuals store and pay,” mentioned Walter Pimenta, government VP of merchandise and innovation for Mastercard in Latin America and the Caribbean.
“Together with our companions, Mastercard has been main the funds trade in enabling entry to this thrilling new world, serving to deliver thousands and thousands of further customers into crypto and different digital property in a secure and trusted method,” Pimenta concluded.


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British PM backs UK games business
Speaking in a podcast directed towards the Global Investor Conference, British prime minister Gordon Brown has said that the UK games industry is at the forefront of the games industry.
"We're leading the way in creative industries. [We're] by far the biggest producer of computer games in Europe, and we're leading the way in digital communications in a country with only one percent of the world's population. More than a third of all internet traffic is routed through UK servers," Brown revealed, as reported by Edge.
"So this coming week is another chance to showcase the UK. This is not just a talking shop though. There will be new commitments of investment off the back of this conference."
UK pressure group TIGA backed Brown's comments, but urged the PM to push through tax breaks to support the industry.
- Hideo Kojima and Guillermo Del Toro collaboration Silent Hills looks like it has been canned
- Batman: Arkham Knight will have GTA V-style character switching
- Call Of Duty: Black Ops III coming this November, skipping last-gen release
- The Iron Banner returns to Destiny next week
- Jason Voorhees DLC coming to Mortal Kombat X next month
- Square Enix announces their own E3 press conference
- Avalanche to reveal Just Cause 3's gameplay next week
- EA Sports Rory McIlroy PGA Tour delayed a touch
- Telltale announces a new deal with Marvel


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KUALA LUMPUR: It was somewhat a positive surprise for Malaysia as the economy narrowly escaped a contraction in the first quarter (Q1) of 2020 with a 0.7% growth, beating worse market predictions earlier.
The much-unexpected relief, however, could well be short-lived.
Bank Negara governor Datuk Nor Shamsiah Mohd Yunus, who is usually selective with her words, has warned that the economy would likely experience “quite a deep” contraction in the second quarter.
The last time the economy dived into a negative territory was in Q3 2009, with a gross domestic product contraction of 1.1%.
Speaking at a virtual media briefing, she also said that the country’s labour market conditions are expected to worsen in the April-June 2020 period, with the unemployment rate exceeding above 4%.
As for the ringgit, which has depreciated by 4.9% against the US dollar in Q1, exchange rate volatility is expected to continue, moving forward, as uncertainties persist in the near term.
However, on the bright side, Nor Shamsiah said the economy could bottom out in Q2 this year before recovering from Q3 onwards.
The key catalysts would be gradual lifting of containment measures as pandemic risk subsides, significant economic policy stimulus as well as gradual normalisation of economic activity and financial conditions.
Nor Shamsiah (file pic below)also said that the country’s unemployment could improve in the second half of the year as rehiring picked up on gradual economic recovery.
On inflationary pressures, she pointed out that it is expected to be muted in 2020.
“While average headline inflation in 2020 is expected to turn negative, risk of deflation is limited.
“This is because the share of consumer items recording price declines remained at around 20%. Demand conditions are also expected to gradually improve as economic activity resumes, ” she said.
Considering the volume of uncertainties at the moment, Nor Shamsiah said Bank Negara has left its growth forecast for 2020 unchanged at -2% to 0.5%.
“We will provide a revised forecast in the second half of the year once there is more clarity in the data and outlook, especially in our major trading partners.
“Since our last forecasts made on April 3, much has changed in terms of assumptions, the MCO (movement control order) was extended for four weeks to almost two months now.
“We are also in relatively early stages of reopening the economy under the conditional MCO with implementation issues being resolved as industries prepare and adjust to new standard operating procedures, ” she said.
The 0.7% year-on-year economic growth in Q1, albeit a sharp moderation from the 3.6% in Q4 2019, came as a surprise as economists were expecting a 1.5% decline, based on a median forecast of 12 economists polled by Reuters.
On a quarter-on-quarter seasonally-adjusted basis, the economy contracted by 2% in Q1 this year.
The Q1 sharp growth moderation mainly reflected the implementation of the MCO.
After a steady expansion in the first two months of the quarter, economic activity came to a sharp downshift with the implementation of the MCO on March 18.
On the supply side, all economic sectors took a major hit, with either a contraction or slower pace of growth.
The services sector, which contributes more than half of the economic value, only grew by 3.1% in Q1, as compared with 6.4% in Q1 last year.
Meanwhile, the manufacturing sector expanded by 1.5% in Q1, down from the 4.1% growth seen in the same quarter last year.
On the other hand, the mining, agriculture and construction sectors all declined in Q1 by 2% (Q1 2019: -1.5%), 8.7% (Q1 2019: 5.8%) and 7.9% (Q1 2019: 0.4%) respectively.
In terms of expenditure, private consumption growth moderated to 6.7% in Q1, while public sector consumption also grew at a slower pace of 5%.
Private and public investments declined by 2.3% and 11.3% in Q1.
Net exports took a huge beating as it shrunk by 37%, on the back of a 7.1% decline in exports and 2.5% decline in imports.
Current account of the balance of payments registered a wider surplus of RM9.5bil or 2.6% of GDP, as compared to 1.9% in Q4 2019.
Nor Shamsiah was also asked whether the six-month loan moratorium, which was part of the second stimulus package, will be extended.
In response to this, she said: “The objective of the moratorium is to provide temporary cashflow relief to borrowers during the crisis.
“With the gradual resumption of the economic activities, what is important is for the banks to support the economic recovery by providing continued access to credit by households and businesses, ” she said.
On Malaysia’s GDP performance in the first quarter, OCBC Bank economist Wellian Wiranto said it appeared that the market had “underestimated the strength of the consumers to power on”.
“To be sure, the momentum did weaken considerably in Q1. In seasonally-adjusted sequential terms, growth shrank by 2% in Q1. This is the first time it has dipped into an outright contraction mode in at least a decade.
“Looking at some of the sub-components of the economy, any sense of joy would look terribly out of place, as well, ” he said.
Going into Q2, Wellian said the consumer’s strength would have been tested to the brink, bearing the brunt of the MCO partial lockdown measures and looming job concerns.
“Still, there is enough juice from Q1 for any expectation for further overnight policy rate cuts from Bank Negara in the immediate months to be more muted for now.
“If there is any indication that growth momentum would suffer more deeply despite the easing of the MCO, Bank Negara would not be hesitant to cut the rate further below the now-historic low to 1.5%, ” he said.
MIDF Research also concurred that there would be “more pain ahead” for the Malaysian economy.
“Moving forward, we foresee domestic demand to continue trending downward, especially with the multiple extension of the MCO in Q2.
“Looking ahead into Q2, the economy is anticipated to contract on an annual basis with the extension of MCO in Malaysia and imposition of lockdowns in other key economies globally.
“We now expect the GDP to contract by 2.1% in 2020, a downward revision from 1% growth initially expected, ” it said in a note.
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Angela Simmons is gushing about her new business venture Angela’s Cakes. Speaking with Big Tigger on the Big Tigger Morning Show, the 35-year-old entrepreneur said she became inspired to create her brand of vegan funnel cake mix after realizing there’s no place where people can purchase a vegan funnel cake.
“There is no vegan funnel cake. Where? Tell me where you can get a vegan funnel cake?” she said on the show.
Simmons, who shared that she has been vegan for 15 years, said the healthy treat will be available at multiple Sugar Factory locations.
“I’ve had a lot of people who are not vegan try it,” she said. “It’s really good and I’m not just saying it ‘cuz it’s mine, I want you to go try it yourself.”
Simmons is also selling her funnel cake mix online at eatangelascakes.com. Customers can buy Angela’s Cakes Dry Mix for $12.99 or the much-larger option, Angela’s Cakes Food Service Box, for $95. The website describes Simmons as a “designer, entrepreneur, vegan and fitness enthusiast.”
Simmons, according to the website, “wanted to create a unique experience for vegans with junk food cravings, matched with various over-the-top toppings.”
“Angela’s Cakes is a fun childhood nostalgic breakfast staple and dessert that reimagines Simmons’ love of pastries,” the site states, adding that the product “is operated as a partner through Slutty Vegan and Pinky Cole.”
Simmons also sells aprons that are mostly colored in pink and decorated with her brand name and logo. In her interview on the Big Tigger Morning Show, Simmons also talked about her relationship with rapper Yo Gotti.
“I just feel like he’s one of my biggest inspirations, and we just get each other,” she said. “He’s a hustler. I love watching him. He inspires me to do better, be better. I’m really happy with him. I think he’s a great person. Not think…I know.”
The former reality star was asked if there are any wedding plans in the works.
“I’m in a really good moment, and I’m happy,” she said. “So when it happens, it’ll happen. But right now, it’s cool, I’m in a great space.”


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There are two massive pieces of news from Hospital Records. The first is the announcement of our brand new home for all things Hospitality – www.hospitalitydnb.com. On the new site you will find everything you need to know about Hospitality worldwide including our second big announcement.
Hospitality’s new flagship night in London is to be held at Brixton Academy on September 24th 2010. Tickets for the biggest Hospitality to date are now on sale. We will be bringing you the line-up and all the build up in the next few weeks over on our Hospitality site.
For the latest goings-ons at Hospital and to keep up-to-date with all of our artists:


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Relief as Gap slides 11%
STRUGGLING US retail giant Gap suffered a further slump in sales in December. However, the 11% fall was not as bad as Wall Street's worst fears and the shares rose $1.98 to $16.50 on the New York Stock Exchange.
Analysts had been forecasting a drop in sales of up to 24%, virtually matching November's disastrous 25% slide. Sales at US-based stores were down 9%, while those at overseas branches were 14% lower.
The San Francisco-based company said it expected the fourth-quarter loss to be no worse than the six cents per share forecast last year. Chief financial officer Heidi Kunz said margins remained well below last year but did show some improvement compared with expectations.
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Fort Washington, MD / February 2, 2022 / RxSeedCoin.io (trading on BitMart.com and BabySwap, with symbol WSOW) is an advanced Blockchain technology business that strives to uplift humanity, and provide solutions for pressing problems facing the world today announces a Food Drop Event including entertainment on Saturday February 5, from 9am to 10:30am at Fort Negley historical site in Nashville Tennessee, 2 miles south of the city center.
Supporters and anyone wanting to volunteer to help distribute food or just have a good time are welcome to attend. 15,000-25,000 lbs. of food will be dropped off in a parking lot, where volunteers will be waiting to sort and distribute it all to our neighbors in need. Volunteers arrive at 7:30 AM, distributions start at approximately 9:00 AM and end at 10:30 AM.
“We pride ourselves on providing fresh and healthy foods, as well as things that are easily prepared and cooked. We do not ask questions or have requirements for people who can receive food,” says Jeff Richfield, a founder of RxSeedCoin.io says. “This is a great way to help people and educate people about the blockchain technology and crypto currency and how it can be used to help people when combined with sustainable business,” says David Miller another RxSeedCoin.io founder, “We are expanding our relationships through an affiliate program and we hope to inspire many more businesses, nonprofits and individuals to join us in our in our community of coin holders that is backed by our business. The best way that people can help support our relief efforts is to buy and hold our WSOW coins on BitMart.com and become part of our community.”
RxSeedCoin.io is a for-profit advanced Blockchain technology business that has commited 1/3 of its resources to help provide solutions to meet the growing problems of hunger, homelessness, health, provision of clean energy solutions as well as disaster relief and temporary emergency housing. As part of the company’s ongoing mission to uplift and help people includes holding a Food Drops for those in need that will also include entertainment and special celebrity guests to inspire people to come. Those wishing to contribute towards the ongoing relief efforts can purchase WSOW coins on BitMart.com or purchase Bible Artwork NFTs online at RxSeedCoin.io.
Rx SeedCoin partners with a U.S. publicly traded company, Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. (OTC:SIRC), and has many exciting projects including: selling securitized Clean Energy NFTs where the Blockchain community will be able to help finance clean energy deployments and reap financial rewards in exchange. RxSeedCoin.io initiates and participates in many ongoing humanitarian relief efforts and was the first organization ever to offer Bible related NFT artwork on Christmas day, 2021, on Ammbr’s NFT exchange to help benefit the victims of the December 2021 Tornados in Kentucky which will also be available for purchase at the event.
For more information visit the company’s website at RxSeedCoin.io.


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In the case filed in Delhi High Court last week, Britannia has alleged that Future Consumer’s packaging for some of its ‘Tasty Treat’ brand of biscuits is “deceptively similar” to Britannia’s biscuit packs.
Amazon has pumped in close to Rs 5,000 crore in its India operations including marketplace and food retail to ward off competition coming from Walmart-owned Flipkart....
The agreements focus on key categories like grocery and general merchandise and fashion and footwear...
Reflecting a broadening of the alliance, Future Group’s ‘Sabse Saste Din’ sale will feature on Amazon.in.
He has been named as Future Consumer’s dedicated chief executive after Devendra Chawla quit from the position over two years back...
Hindustan Unilever’s former chairman Harish Manwani, who is currently senior operating partner at Blackstone, will act as an advisor. Blackstone will also have a board seat in FLF...
Amazon has the option to become the largest shareholder in Future Retail and can exercise this call option anytime between the third and the 10th year...
The executives said brands typically do not offer discount during Diwali since it is a full price selling period, but this year there is a fear that offline business may not pick up after heavy online discounting last week
The country's two largest e-commerce marketplaces, Amazon and Walmart-owned Flipkart, which launched their biggest sale for the year over the weekend
Future Style Lab makes a pre-store investment of Rs 60 lakh to Rs 1 crore on each of its Cover Story stores, inspired by London high-street fashion
The company recently announced Amazon picking up a full 49 percent stake in Future Coupons, the promoter entity of Future Retail, with an option to acquire the entire stake later
Amazon gets an entry into brick-and-mortar retail; agrees to buy 49% in Future Coupons , a promoter group company of Future Retail
US etailer also gets option to buy all or part of promoter stake in Future Retail
The deal, if it goes through, will help Amazon further strengthen its foothold in the Indian market where it already operates an online marketplace
According to Nielsen, modern trade contributes nearly 9.4% to 45,000 crore of the overall FMCG sales through stores operated largely by three companies - the Future Group, Reliance Retail and Avenue Supermarts
Why laundry brands’ attempt to protect the future by targetting millennials can be a marketing gimmick
From Future Consumer to Hindustan Unilever, FMCG firms are launching a range of detergents targeting the millennials
Currently, FCL has one Rs 1000 crore plus brand in the food segment, Golden Harvest
The retail group to cut procurement from HUL and P&G by a third as it launches its own line of laundry products
Dreamery that will be launched in the western states initially and then rolled out in other states over the next 24 months
Move seen as a precursor to stake sale deal between the two companies
Future Retail is part of Future Group founded by Kishore Biyani, who is also the Group's chief executive officer.
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text: Block.co participated at Bloomen Ideathon for Blockchain and Media, on the 23rd and 24th of January 2020 and pitched it’s idea on how to easily protect digital media property. The event aim was to bring both technical and business people from the community, for not only enhancing the operations of the consortium through idea building and problem-solving but also to introduce blockchain technology as a tool for innovators wanting to disrupt the current state-of-art. Making the misuse of copyrighted works detectable, and thus deterring people from misuse, is the most promising measure currently known. Most proposals currently apply watermarking techniques and focus on resolving the ownership in disputes which may arise after a misuse has been detected. Courts of Law compare the ownership claims of disputing parties, but in fact, it could be that the actual owners may not know about the dispute. Proof of ownership is highly desirable in such situations because on one hand, the buyers are ensured not to buy digital items from fake copyright holders and on the other hand, the copyright holders are protected against unauthorized reselling of their digital works.


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Rishi Sunak’s upbeat view on economy stokes claims he is out of touch
Rishi Sunak’s upbeat view on economy stokes claims he is out of touch –
Rishi Sunak has been accused of being out of touch with ordinary families after claiming the economy was looking up and people’s household incomes were “hugely outperforming” expectations despite the cost of living crisis.
On a flight to Japan for the G7 summit of world leaders, the prime minister said that despite consumers struggling with high inflation and the cost of food and energy, there were “lots of signs that things are moving in the right direction” with the economy.
Sunak also risked a row with his home secretary, Suella Braverman, by defending record numbers of people coming to the UK legally and refusing to commit to the Tories’ 2019 manifesto pledge to reduce net migration.
The chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, waded into the internal dispute, saying the government would maintain a “pragmatic” approach to immigration despite official data due next week being expected to show the numbers have increased by more than 700,000.
Sunak also insisted that Brexit was working by citing cheaper beer and sanitary products. It came as three big global carmakers called on the UK government to renegotiate the Brexit deal, saying rules on where parts are sourced threatened the future of the British automotive industry.
However, it was the prime minister’s upbeat assessment of the economy, when so many households are still feeling the pinch and could continue to do so for some time, that prompted criticism.
Labour’s Treasury spokesperson, James Murray, said: “Almost every word that comes out of the prime minister’s mouth shows how utterly out of touch he is and disconnected from the reality of life for working people in our country.”
Sunak told reporters on the way to the summit: “Economic optimism is increasing, consumer confidence is increasing, growth estimates are being raised.”
Official figures for real household disposable income growth had been “very pessimistic” but were now “hugely” better than predicted, he said. “That’s a very important measure of people’s living standards – hugely outperforming what people thought,” Sunak added.
Andrew Bailey, the governor of the Bank of England, struck a more downbeat note when he warned that the central bank would continue to increase interest rates – already at 4.5%, the highest rate since 2008 – if there were signs that inflation was remaining persistent.
Bailey blamed higher food prices and the tight labour market for continued inflationary pressure, and predicted that even when headline inflation falls as expected, these pressures “are unlikely to go away as quickly as they appeared”.
The Resolution Foundation said in March that typical household disposable incomes were on course to be lower by the end of 2027 than they were during the Covid pandemic, and last month Huw Pill, the Bank of England’s chief economist, said people needed to accept they were poorer.
Average living standards have been broadly stagnant since 2007. However, the latest figures, for March 2023, showed a 1.3% increase in real household disposable income after four quarters of negative figures.
Sunak acknowledged that things felt “tough” for families but highlighted the government’s contribution to energy bills. Sounding a positive note on the economy, he said two surveys of business leaders showed “enormous confidence” in the UK.
“That’s what’s actually happening with the economy, that’s what global CEOs who actually have the money and are making investment decisions are saying,” he said, adding that he was “glad to have got that off my chest”.
The prime minister conceded that the UK was dealing with high inflation and elevated borrowing but said he was sticking to his aim to “reduce the tax burden” with tax cuts after dealing with those problems first.
The Institute for Fiscal Studies said this week that one in five people would be caught in the higher rate of tax by 2027, leading to pressure on Sunak from his backbenchers to cut rates.


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SportsBaazi has appointed Afghanistan cricketer, Rashid Khan, as its brand ambassador. According to the sports gaming company, the decision to rope in Rashid Khan aligns well with SportsBaazi’s revamped brand identity to offer exciting new formats and user experiences.
SportsBaazi stated that Rashid’s popularity and rapport with the Indian audiences will serve in highlighting SportsBaazi’s primary communication theme, ‘LIVE Mein Hai Vibe.’ They believe that focusing on the Watch and Play category, Rashid’s presence with his year-round display of skills for Afghanistan’s National Cricket team and in franchise leagues like Big Bash League (BBL), Indian Premier League (IPL), Pakistan Super League (PSL), would align seamlessly with the brand’s pursuit for someone who exudes ‘LIVE’ spirit and is passionate about the game all the time.
Rashid Khan conveyed his excitement on the partnership, saying, “I am thrilled to represent SportsBaazi and be part of this unique opportunity to build spectator engagement gaming. The growth of skill-based games like fantasy sports in India over the last seven years is nothing short of fascinating. It’s an honor to see sports fans transition from mere spectators to decision-makers with the ‘LIVE’ feature based on their knowledge and understanding of the games. I am delighted to be part of SportsBaazi, a platform that celebrates every sport in India uniquely.”
Mr. Puneet Dua, CMO and Co-Founder of SportsBaazi, warmly welcomed Rashid Khan, stating, “Rashid Khan epitomizes the Baazigar spirit and has made a mark in the world of cricket with his skill and dedication, aligning perfectly with our vision. Through this association, we aim for Rashid to inspire our users to see challenges as opportunities for achieving success. Rashid has played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s rise in world cricket, and we believe his representation will revolutionize the Online Fantasy Sports (OFS) industry.”
Rashid Khan’s popularity soared post Afghanistan’s impressive display at the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, marking their best campaign yet, showcasing Rashid’s impact on the team. With 72% of his 8.7 million social media followers being Indians, Rashid’s fan connection is undeniable. Simultaneously, SportsBaazi launched a ‘Watch and Play’ concept, inviting fans to participate actively in live skill games while watching their favoruite sports. This immersive experience brings fans closer to live events, prompting them to test their knowledge of the sport and player dynamics.
Source: Media Release


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J&J’s latest MedTech acquisition
Johnson & Johnson is focused on strengthening its medical device technologies business. On September 12, J&J’s medical device subsidiary announced the acquisition of EIT (Emerging Implant Technologies), a German developer of 3-D printed titanium interbody implants for spinal fusion surgery. The deal’s financial terms were not disclosed.
The acquisition advances J&J’s plans to expand its portfolio of spine solutions and strengthen its orthopedics business. In fiscal 2017, J&J reported a 6% decline in its spine business sales. The above diagram shows J&J’s spine business performance in 2017.
In the spinal interbody segment, J&J’s orthopedics business, DePuy Synthes, comprises the PROTI 360° family of titanium-integrated interbody implants with PEEK (polyetheretherketone) technology and Concorde Lift expandable interbody devices. The acquisition is a complementary fit for J&J’s interbody implant segment.
EIT’s advanced technology expected to bolster J&J’s implant business
EIT’s implants are developed using advanced cellular titanium with an open and interconnected porous structure that enables bones to grow into the implant. The company’s first fully 3D-printed adjustable interbody fusion cage was used for the first time in surgery earlier this year after the device was approved in Europe in February.
EIT uses additive manufacturing to build spinal implant technologies, which cuts device costs. Such lower-cost alternatives could help J&J gain a larger share of the spinal implant technology market.
Check out all the data we’ve added to our quote pages. Now you can get a valuation snapshot, earnings and revenue estimates, and historical data, as well as dividend information. Take a look!


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The tour will start in Surrey on July 21st to 25th and ends in Norfolk on September 15th to 19th.
A life-size version of the Pipling’s home will form the main attraction. Inside, children can take part in art, music and construction activities.
Maria Sze, brand director at Zodiak Kids, said: “We are excited to be partnering with the National Trust this summer. Their locations are a natural fit for the Waybuloo brand and provide a perfect backdrop for the Pipling’s home.
“Previous Waybuloo events have demonstrated that there is a continued appetite for the brand, and I am sure that the Summer Tour willl prove just as engaging for young children and parents alike."
The promotion will look to tie in with the theme of CBeebies programme, which aims to show pre-schoolers 'how to feel happy and confident when working together'.
Click here to see the full list of Waybuloo tour locations and dates.


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Pinarello left many in the cycling community upset on Monday as it marketed its newly released electric road bike, the Nytro. Both a press release and an Instagram teaser ad implied that the bike was a dream ride for women—but only because they need its help to keep up with the men in their lives.
In its press release, the Italian bike manufacturer directed a statement at recreational riders who may want the e-bike to keep pace:
"Nytro aims at a wide target, from the one that has no time to train but would never miss a weekend ride with friends, to women who would like to follow easily the men's pace, or even the ones who desire to experience cycling as a new way of life, climbing easily and going downhill safely, enjoying every single minute on the bike.”
More From Bicycling
The target market in the Instagram ad was more overt, showing the face of a young woman—Emma, 24, a “Couple rider”—with the caption: “I’ve always wanted to go cycling with my boyfriend but it seemed impossible. Soon everything will become possible.”
Another Instagram ad for the Nytro, this one featuring a man, did not focus on his weaknesses as a rider but rather his ability to commit time to training, due to him supposedly holding a high-powered job. Some noted the contrast between the two ads, calling it a double standard.
RELATED: Colnago Disappoints Social Media Followers with Sexist Posts
The ads hit a nerve in a cycling community that has seen a long line of marketing and media portraying women as either eye candy, not quite capable, or some combination of the two. Many expressed disappointment that Pinarello, whatever its intentions, had repeated stereotypes casting women as less skilled at cycling than men. The general outcry wasn’t against e-bikes per se, but rather the implication that e-bike assistance is for the “weaker sex.”
The ads were quickly met with a blowback and Pinarello later pulled both Instagram posts. A stream of social media commentary, much of it bearing the hashtag #PinarellNO, pointed out that there are plenty of men out there who can’t keep up with women.
RELATED: After Pushback from Vittoria Tires, PezCycling News Ends ‘Beautiful Women’ Gallery
Stefan Wyman, husband of professional cyclocross racer and nine-time British Champion Helen Wyman, offered a parody post of his own:
Update: The following day, Pinarello posted an apology to Instagram. "Our recent Nytro advertisement failed to reflect the values of diversity and equality that are core to Pinarello," the statement read. "The Nytro is designed to make cycling accessible to more people and our advertisement clearly failed to convey that message. We sincerely apologize and have pulled the ad from all channels."
Keep up with the latest cycling news by subscribing to our newsletter.


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Starbucks to close 8000 US stores for bias training
Amazon have 100 million paid Prime members globally
GST sops for SMEs, exporters; tax rates on 27 items reduced
07 October 2017, 12:24 | Virginia Santiago
Also, domestic supplies to holders of AA / EPCG and EOUs would be treated as deemed exports under Section 147 of CGST/SGST Act and refund of tax paid on such supplies given to the supplier.
"The decisions were made based on the consideration of how to improve revenue and to create convenience for tax payers based on the revenue pattern", said Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, who chairs the GST Council.
"Future exports that they will do till March 31 will work through that exemption in which the nominal of 0.1 per cent will be given and after that we will work to establish the e-wallet by April 1, 2018".
Important decisions in-terms of reducing tax rates on various goods and services, to ease of compliance norms for small & medium business and trader were taken in the meeting. Details of the meeting were sketchy, but sources said addressing concerns related to GST are top priority for the government.
The introduction of Good and Service Tax (GST) - the one nation, one tax regime - does not appear to have brought cheer to State coffers, at least not yet, as the collection of new taxes equivalent to the Value Added Tax (VAT) collected during the corresponding period past year, shows a 22 percent decline. The key feedback received was that post GST, exporters started facing problems in organising working capital.
New Daydream View headsets flaunt new colors and texture
With a Google Pixel handset in your pocket, you can tap and hold the Pixel Buds' right earbud to activate Google Assistant . Google also unveiled several other new gadgets including the Pixelbook , Google Home Mini and the Pixel Buds .
"The ambit of the composition scheme has been expanded", the Finance Minister says. He said the department is facing monthly shortfall of over Rs 40 crore as compared to the Value-Added Tax collection and it (shortfall) will continue for another three months.
Speaking to media persons after the meeting, Jaitley said food packets used in the ICDS scheme, plastic and rubber wastes will now be taxed at the rate of 5 per cent instead of 18 per cent. "However, to make this scheme really effective, it needs to be liberalized more by including all service providers and allowing them to undertake inter-State supplies". The council has also chose to develop an e-wallet gateway in six months. "It needs to be seen that how the other issues which have reached different courts in the country are addressed in the days to come". Revoking the GST notification on gems and jewellery, the Government said a separate notification in this regard would be issued later. No input tax credit can be claimed by those opting for composition scheme.
- Yarn brought from 18% to 12%. The GOM will have to submit its report within a period of two weeks.
Input tax credit for exporters for July and August, estimated at $10 billion, would be refunded soon.
But it does not end there as MMO reported that the amendments will also include digital streaming services such as Netflix and iflix.
Piqué jeered by Spain fans after Catalan vote
Puigdemont said the low turnout was partly because many people wanted to vote, but were prevented by officials from doing so. Spain's interior minister said the 5,000 extra officers deployed to Catalonia would stay as long as necessary.
2 title bouts headline UFC 216 in Vegas after shooting
The first time Ferguson was scheduled to fight for the interim belt was in UFC 209's co-main event against Khabib Nurmagomedov . He flew to California to promote the UFC 216 fight on Sunday, and did not learn the full scope of the attack until Monday.
The Boston Red Sox Clinch the AL East
This will be the Red Sox final chance to get back in this game as the Astros are three outs away from taking home a win in Game 1. Keys for the Red Sox on the series for the offense should be ambush early and don't let the starter settle in.
Yankees - Indians: ALDS Game 1 score, highlights
Poor outfield defense really cost the Indians in the World Series last season, but that doesn't look like a concern in 2017. The Indians have decided not to throw Cy Young candidate Corey Kluber into Game 1, and that has caused some controversy.
Stejskal: Who should the U.S. start against Panama?
Any doubters he might have had before this goal have surely evaporated with this play that put the USMNT up 1-0. However, recent results between the two sides make it clear this is anything but a formality for the U.S.


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If you own a drone, or if Santa is putting one under your tree this Christmas, you’d better be aware of Barack Obama’s latest regulatory overreach.
Every drone owner in the United States is required to register for a Federal Drone License by February 19, 2016. Failure to register could result in a penalty of $27,000, and/or 3 years in jail.
The online registration would apply to owners of small drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds and less than 55 pounds, including payloads such as on-board cameras, according to a statement by the FAA.
The new rules would require drone owners to pay a $5 registration fee. Penalties go up to $27,000 for civil violations, $250,000 for criminal acts with up to three years behind bars.
It’s for your own good, of course.
“Make no mistake: unmanned aircraft enthusiasts are aviators and with that title comes a great deal of responsibility,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said in a statement. “Registration gives us an opportunity to work with these users to operate their unmanned aircraft safely. I’m excited to welcome these new aviators into the culture of safety and responsibility that defines American innovation.”
Uh huh. Nothing says “innovation” quite like the heavy hand of government.
As in the same “government” that completely botched the Obamacare website rollout. But trust them, the FAA drone licensing website will be totally secure, honest! Just give them your credit card number, your drivers license number, your home address, your social security number, your mother’s maiden name, and probably about 27 other items of personal information, and in return they’ll issue you a shiny little card that says “Official Obama Drone Operator.”
Make sure you renew it every 3 years too. Because once the government gets their claws into you, they never let go.


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BlueWeave Consulting, a leading strategic consulting and market research firm, in its recent study, estimated the Poland tire market size at USD 1,683.00 million in 2022. During the forecast period between 2023 and 2029, BlueWeave expects the Poland tire market size to grow at a CAGR of 4.75% reaching a value of USD 2,328.96 million by 2029. Several important trends are being seen in the Polish tire market. As a result of environmental concerns, there is an increasing focus on environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient tires. The Polish market for tires is being impacted by the increase in electric vehicles, with a focus on low-rolling resistance tires to increase EV efficiency. Also, the industry is being impacted by digitization, which has led to a surge in online tire sales and the adoption of tire sensor technology for better maintenance and safety. A change in preference for all-season and winter tires as a result of shifting weather patterns is also noticeable. Collectively, these developments show how the industry is adjusting to environmental concerns, advancing technology, and shifting mobility requirements.
Poland Tire Market – Overview
A tire is a circular, flexible, and robust rubber covering, primarily designed to fit onto wheels of various vehicles, such as cars, bicycles, and trucks. It serves essential functions, including providing traction, supporting the vehicle’s weight, absorbing shocks from the road, and enabling smooth movement. Tires typically consist of several layers, including tread, belts, and inner liners, engineered to optimize performance, durability, and safety. Tread patterns vary for different terrains and weather conditions. Proper tire maintenance, inflation, and rotation are crucial for extending their lifespan and ensuring optimal vehicle handling and safety.
Impact of COVID-19 on Poland Tire Market
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Poland’s tire market. Lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, and decreased consumer mobility led to a decline in tire demand. Automotive production slowdowns further weakened the market. However, an upswing in e-commerce for tire sales and a focus on hygiene-conscious travel revitalized some sectors. The market saw a shift toward essential tire replacements and a preference for online purchases. As the pandemic eases, recovery efforts are underway, driven by increased mobility and a rebound in automotive activities. The tire market’s evolution continues with a blend of traditional retail and digital avenues shaping its future landscape.
Poland Tire Market – By Demand Category
By demand category, the Poland tire market is divided into OEM and Replacement segments. The replacement segment stands out as the largest and most significant segment within the market. This segment pertains to the aftermarket demand for tires, where consumers replace their worn-out or damaged tires on existing vehicles. Several factors contribute to the prominence of the Replacement segment. The wear and tear of tires due to regular usage necessitates periodic replacements, boosting demand. Also, fluctuations in weather conditions and road surfaces can accelerate tire deterioration, further driving replacement needs.
Poland tire market is fiercely competitive. Major companies in the market include Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear, Continental, Pirelli, Hankook, Dunlop, Nokian Tires, Apollo Tires, and Cooper Tires. These companies use various strategies, including increasing investments in their R&D activities, mergers, and acquisitions, joint ventures, collaborations, licensing agreements, and new product and service releases to further strengthen their position in Poland tire market.
BlueWeave Consulting & Research Pvt. Ltd
+1 866 658 6826 | +1 425 320 4776 | +44 1865 60 0662


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Wednesday, 5th June 2019
New South Wales
Coles Supermarket Sale (AFR)
A 9,250m² shopping centre at 269-299 Brisbane Water Drive, West Gosford, NSW 2250 has been sold by Coles and ISPT to private investor Mintus for $23 million ($2,846.49/m²).
The vacant single-level centre sits on a 17,600m² site and was sold as a redevelopment project.
Fairfield Shopping Centre Purchase (AFR)
Investment manager Arcadia has offloaded the Neeta City shopping centre at 54 Smart Street, Fairfield, NSW 2165 for $83.5 million ($3,373.74/m²) to Eleanor Investors Group and their investment partner Atlas Advisors.
The three-storey 24,750m² centre, anchored by a Woolworths supermarket and a Big W discount department store, occupies a 2.22-ha site and collects an estimated fully leased net income of $7.1 million.
Sydney CBD Lease (AFR)
Recruitment company Talent Realised has renewed its lease for a further two years for 104m² of office space at Level 5, 88 Pitt Street at a gross annual rent of $72,800 ($700/m²).
Western Sydney Warehouse Lease (AFR)
RRE Logistics has secured a four-year lease term for 11,191m² of warehouse space at 2 Percival Road, Smithfield, NSW 2164 at an annual rent of $1.19 million ($106.34/m²).
Brisbane CBD Lease (AFR)
238m² of office space at 500 Queen Street, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 has been leased to Mining company Queensland Coal Investment.
The level 14 space in the refurbished A-grade tower was leased on a 5-year term at an annual rent of $595/m² ($141,610).
Cremorne Office Lease (AFR)
Developer Cobiild has leased 350m² of office space at 9-11 Cremorne Street, Cremorne, VIC 3121 for a gross annual rent of $700/m² ($245,000).
#Coles #ShoppingCentre #NSWShoppingCentre #WestGosfordShoppingCentre #FairfieldShoppingCentre #NeetaCity #Arcadia #EleanorInvestmentGroup #Eleanor #AtlasAdvisors #SydneyCBDLease #SydneyCBDOffice #WesternSydneyIndustrialLease #BrisbaneCBD #BrisbaneCity


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VWN brand director Bernd Wiedemann told Automobilwoche, "We want to attract customers who were not part of our target group, more than ever."
The VW group's management board wants to quickly improve business at VWN. After it lost 134 million euros over six months, VW boss Bernd Pischetsrieder called the subsidiary's situation a disaster and demanded that things be put right.
VWN has added a Caravelle van, which is based on the T5 commercial truck series. The price for the minibus with between five and seven seats will start at 29,383 euros. It should attract target groups such as hotel chains for which the more upmarket T5 multivan is too expensive (starting at 33,344 euros) and the Shuttle van (starting at 28,002 euros) is too austerely equipped.
The new version of the Caddy city van will also soon be available in a cheaper version. Since that version is not fitted with the expensive sliding door system, it weighs less, which means it can be equipped with less expensive tires. It costs 11,945 euros, which is 500 euros less than the previous basic model.
"This is an important incentive not only for very price conscious small businesses," said Wiedemann.
After many potential buyers complained about the high basic price of the California mobile home (starting at 39,620 euros) VWN decided to introduce a basic model called Tramper at the end of 2005. The target price is less than 30,000 euros.
Folker Weissgerber ,VW's head of production , plays a key role in turning things around at VWN. That, he says, "has total priority for us."
In his role as promoter of VW's "ForMotion" austerity program Weissgerber is responsible for the commercial vehicle business. He sent pilot series experts and paint experts from the Wolfsburg, Emden and Mosel VW plants to the VWN main plant in Hanover to act as technical advisers.
In addition, advisers from Porsche Consulting are looking at ways to optimize assembly processes.
Said Wiedemann, "We hope to manage a turnaround in 2005."


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REGINA — It seemed like Mission: Impossible. Get the keys to the Canada Safeway store at 3801 Albert St. on midnight Wednesday and be open for business as a Sherwood Co-op Food store at 9 a.m. Friday.
So how do you turn a Safeway into a Co-op in less than 36 hours?
Let’s just say it was a co-operative effort, with up to 50 staff, along with construction, painting and signage contractors and trades working day and night to get the job done, according to Troy Verboom, general manager of Sherwood Co-operative Association.
“We’re busy patching and painting; we’re going to put up some new decor. We’ve put in all new checkouts and aisle markers,” said Verboom, taking a break from the renovations on Thursday. “It’s going to be a brand new store for the customers when they walk through the door on Friday.’’
Even the store’s entrance and exit doors are going to change, but not right away. “That’s going to happen down the road,” Verboom said. “We’re going to close the south entrance and put a vestibule and main entrance at the north end.’’
But there will be plenty of changes in store for customers, including two washrooms on the main floor, a fresh meat department, a fresh paint job and new signage inside and out. “We’ve got two different crews working 24 hours a day since we started this at midnight on the 21st (of May),’’ Verboom said. “We probably had 50 people when we took out the checkouts. At any given time, there are 30 to 40 of us here working.’’ Much of the estimated $800,000 in renovation work is behind the scenes, including new point-of-sale systems at the tills and new trim on the store shelves. “That’s something that the customer doesn’t see,” Verboom said. “It’s definitely a lot of work, but it’s going to be worth it in the end.”
In addition to taking on store manager Dean Shaw and 48 RWDSU employees, Sherwood also acquired all of Safeway’s stock, with surplus stock being donated to the Regina Food Bank. “The food bank’s going to do very well,” Verboom added.
The south Albert store was one of 14 Safeway locations in Western Canada acquired by Federated Co-operatives Ltd., the wholesale arm of the co-operative retailing system. The stores were sold as part of Sobeys’ agreement with the Competition Bureau related to purchase of Canada Safeway in 2013.


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Universal high-definition DVD players to end format war, says researcher
The LG Electronics launch of its Super Multi Blue Player at the 2007 International CES convention earlier this month in Las Vegas has signaled a potential end to the high-definition DVD format wars, according to ABI Research.
Universal format players like the new LG device, which accommodate both HD-DVD and Blu-ray discs, will become the norm, not the exception, according a report from ABI Research.
Universal players will dominate the market, said Steve Wilson, the firm's principal analyst of consumer electronics. Samsung is expected to release its own universal player soon, and others are expected to follow. ABI Research forecasts sales of 2.4 million such players in 2007, rising to 55 million in 2011.
While LG's player costs $1200, prices will not stay in the stratosphere, Wilson said. The build of material for such players will fall once integrated chipsets make it to market. Once universal player prices dip below $200, mass adoption will take off, he said.
For more information, visit www.abiresearch.com.
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A groundbreaking initiative that aims to make English the international
language for the spa industry will be launched at World Travel Market as
part of this year’s Spa, Health and Wellness focus.Working with the British International Spa Association (BISA) and the Spa
Research Fellowship, the focus will span all four days of the leading
business to business event at ExCeL London (Monday 12 -Thursday 15
November). There will be three free seminars, an information stand, spa
listing booklet as well as activities by exhibitors.
This will include the Israeli Government Tourist Office (IGTO), who is once
again linking with AHAVA Essential Dead Sea Treatments to bring delegates
the benefits of the worlds oldest natural spa, the Dead Sea. As the lowest
place on earth and renowned for its rejuvenating properties, the Dead Sea
has the highest concentration of minerals on the planet and produces
mineral-rich mud, proven to aid the healing of many skin conditions.
Visitors and exhibitors to the stand can book facials and spa treatments and
sample some of the delights this natural wonder has to offer.
Robert Czik, Managing Director of spa product manufacturer SpaFind Skincare,
is unveiling details of the new spa training college being set up in Kent,
UK. The school is a joint project between SpaFind and the Bell International
Language School, working in partnership with the British International Spa
Association (BISA), of which Czik is treasurer.
“The plan is to get international spa operators to send their therapists to
the UK, both to improve their technique and learn specialist spa English,”
“We hope it will appeal to large hotel groups, such as Hyatt, but also
national spa associations overseas,” explained Czik.
He said that the position of English already as an international business
language made it the obvious choice for spa students.
The initiative has already won over spa industry bosses in China, who are
keen to build the treatment sector to aid their tourism development.
At the end of November the school is expecting to welcome its first batch of
overseas students - 35 would-be therapists from Japan - who will tour UK spa
facilities, learn more about England’s spa history, and brush up their
“BISA’s aim is to develop best practice standards that go beyond the
individual group training schemes, so this is a way of spreading the word,”
World Travel Market’s Health and Wellness focus is a reflection of the
phenomenal growth of spa holidays, according to Fiona Jeffery, the event’s
“Research shows that the industry has grown 40% in the past three years
alone”, said Jeffery.
“The sheer size of the market is mind-boggling. There are now more spas in
the US alone (15,699) than there are Starbucks coffee shops in the world
Dr Bruce Osborne, chairman of the UK’s Spa Research Fellowship and
vice-chairman of the British International Spa Association says that spas
have become an essential part of the holiday market.
“There are two definite trends,” explained Dr Osborne. “The first is for
spas to align themselves with big brands such as ESPA. They can buy the
products in bulk and get a whole regime of support, including staff
“There is also a trend towards the exotic. Creating new products sets you
apart. Spas often look to the local culture, say using coconut milk in the
Caribbean, to add an element of ethnicity to their offering.
“New treatments are being offered all the time, usually with a form of
evidence that it does some good.
“They may be quite bizarre, but with the plethora of procedures available
some will stick and get taken on into the mainstream. Alternatively, these
‘unique’ products will stay niche and have a novelty value.”


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A Gold Coast woman has revealed the “ridiculous” reason she was kicked out of her gym — but her complaint has divided Australians.
Kenzie Greaves claims she was booted from the Goodlife Health Clubs in Bundall for wearing slides instead of shoes on Wednesday.
After leaving the gym, Kenzie took to social media to vent her frustrations, explaining she has a broken toe and “can’t put shoes on” — but not everyone empathized with her plight.
Many gyms instruct members to wear closed shoes at all times on the gym floor for health and safety reasons, however, it is not a universal policy.
But Kenzie felt her injury should have exempted her from the fitness center’s rule, claiming the rule was “dumb” and that it should be down to the individual to not drop weights on their own feet.
“I’m going to name and shame because I think it’s pretty ridiculous to be fair,” she explained in her video.
“I have a broken toe with a toenail almost coming off, that I’m probably going to have to have surgery to take it out.
“So I cannot wear shoes, even just socks is so painful.”
Kenzie went on to explain as a result, she was so “just wearing socks and slides” because shoes were too constricting, adding she wore the slip-on while walking around the gym but took them off to exercise because “they’re awkward to do stuff in”.
“A man comes up to me and says ‘You have to leave’,” she continued, explaining her injury was the reason for her unusual footwear choice, but the gym employee wouldn’t take no for an answer.
“If I’m that dumb to drop a weight on my foot then it’s my own fault,” Kenzie lamented.
“So probably going to cancel my membership there because that is so dumb.”
Wearing enclosed shoes is part of Goodlife Gym’s terms and conditions due to health and safety conditions.
The rules on its website state that “all members and guests must wear suitable clothes and enclosed sports shoes in any exercise areas”.
A spokesperson from Goodlife Health Club told news.com.au; “The health and safety of our members is our top priority and requiring all members to wear enclosed shoes is part of that promise”.
Many argued Kenzie was in the wrong because of the brand’s clear Ts&Cs on TikTok.
“You become a legal liability, it’s not that deep, all gyms have this rule,” one commenter wrote.
“You can’t walk around any business without footwear on,” another stressed.
“I go to Goodlife as well and they literally tell you this when you sign up and it’s in the paperwork,” someone else added.
However, there were many who supported Kenzie, claiming lots of gyms allow shoes off on gym floors, as it’s “optimal for lifting”.
“My gym encourages no shoes!! better for lifting,” one supporter remarked.
“Having shoes on or being barefoot, drop a weight on your foot & the outcome will be the same. Unless you wearing steal caps,” another added.
As one raged: “Everyone saying all gyms have this rule, no they don’t. How unfair!”
Kenzie later shared an update on the situation, revealing on Instagram she had ended her contract.
“New gym feels,” she captioned a snap inside the new fitness centre.


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What a year. Aside from the obvious difficulties for the entire world, it was an excellent growing year overall, and such a great response to our little winery that just passed its first birthday 🎂 . We've got some exciting things in the pipeline set for Spring release.
Starting with the most unsurprising, we'll be making more of our signature skin contact blend – Orange No.2 .
'No.1' is now sold out except for 2 cases set to release in a little holiday mixer pack coming later this month (Nov).
Sadly, we won't be releasing a 2020 Sauvignon Blanc... we've decided to use these grapes (that come from Kevin's own property) in a white, skin contact blend that also includes Semillon and Chardonnay. We're very excited for this one...
Our dark, cloudy and delicious 2019 Tempranillo Rose won't be happening... but in it's place will be a similar rose experiment, but with Malbec grapes hailing from down south near Oliver.
Coming later in Spring will be a release of a straight Merlot, and closer to Fall 2021 will be a very small release of our 2019 Tempranillo.
Keep an eye out for our newsletter (if you're signed up) for our holiday 6 pack. Thanks to all who supported us this year, and cheers to 2021!


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Cornell Cooperative Extension to Host Local Food Event
ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- The Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chemung County announced a local food-tasting event today Friday, September 15th.
Taste of Chemung, a local food tasting event, is being held on Thursday, September 28th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Meals on Wheels in Elmira. The event will showcase local food vendors to serve their ‘tastes’ to attendees. Along with that, guests can have a chance at basket raffles, games, and a cake walk.
Proceeds from the Taste of Chemung event will support CCE-offered programs such as Agriculture Education, 4-H Youth Development, Natural Resources and Community and Economic Vitality, and Horticulture & Master Gardeners.
Local vendors that have already been secured for the event include Hamlet Delights, Rye Bar, Meals on Wheels, Cubbie Bera Treats, and Annie’s Pancakes. Additionally, the current event sponsors are Vulcraft of New York, Visions Federal Credit Union, Hesselson's, Wegmans, and Chemung Canal Trust Company.
Tickets for Taste of Chemung are on sale now online or at the CCE Main Office. If they aren’t sold out, tickets will also be available at the door for $30 each. Presale tickets will go for $25 per person with an additional $2 processing fee for online purchases.


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You now have an easier online way to manage your Home Delivery subscription for The Oklahoman. Go to our secure server to update account information, make a payment, set up vacation no-delivery times, change your delivery address, or report delivery concerns.
Christopher Jacques, 22, uses his index finger to pay for an Italian soda at a coffee shop at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology on Friday Feb. 15, 2013. Jacques, an electrical engineering major from Pacific, Wash., is one of about 50 students and four faculty members at the school enrolled in a pilot program that uses Biocryptology -- or one's fingerprint and hemoglobin -- in place of cash or credit cards to pay for items. (AP Photo, Amber Hunt)


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Kenyan hip hop artiste King Kaka has linked up with the world’s top crypto-led sports betting sites; Sportsbet and Bitcasino, as a global ambassador across East Africa, and beyond.
This, and other developments, show the gradual acceptance of crypto gaming locally.
The robust video game industry has been on the rise and the introduction of blockchain technology makes things even better. But what is it?
First, crypto gaming does not mean only gambling.
This is an avenue where digital items inside video games can be turned into real-world assets, equivalent to stocks or bonds in form of non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
Unlike traditional games where the experience and items gathered in the game can only be used in the specific game, crypto gaming introduces a whole new element to the industry players can now use their rewards and items across different crypto gaming platforms.
How it works
This development has a significant difference from traditional games. Some traditional games utilise the pay-to-play method where players use fiat currency to acquire in-game money, they can collect items and level up their characters.
Crypto gaming does the opposite: the play-to-earn model allows people to make profits from their investment through crypto gaming coins. In this scenario, players hold exclusive ownership over what they collect.
Crypto gaming has several advantages. First, the issue of bureaucracy is completely removed when dealing with crypto as it allows players to enjoy their games quickly as the process of exchanging units is not only instant but efficient.
Also, one gets the ability to play and withdraw funds anywhere internationally without any restrictions. Not forgetting, middlemen are eliminated. This translates to more income due to the peer-to-peer transactions nature.
Security is also another thumbs up since the technology prevents illegal trading of digital assets as well as one remaining discrete and anonymous.
However, as much as security is one of the pros of this venture, it becomes a con having in mind that these currencies exist outside traditional banking systems.
Therefore, players are exempted from the many protections that banks offer. If a hacker successfully manages to hack into your account, you lose everything with a trace.
What you need for crypto gaming
Most crypto games are based on the Etherium blockchain, so one needs to purchase ether to play them. You’ll need to use a cryptocurrency exchange platform to convert your money into Ether, and there are plenty of exchanges to choose from.
So first, you create a cryptocurrency wallet: To store their virtual currency and NFTs, and make in-game transactions.
After getting your wallet up and running you should purchase starter items as most games require players to first purchase characters, native crypto tokens, decks of cards or upgrades in order to begin.
Not forgetting that your crypto wallet should be first pre-funded. In order to make these purchases, your wallet should be funded with the proper currency.


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Palace has just released a closer look at all the knitwear that are part of its upcoming Summer 2020 drop. This comes just after showing its upcoming season’s lookbook, shot by photographer Lewis Khan and modeled by Lucien Clarke and Rory Milanes.
For fans of knit, this part of Palace’s summer releases is particularly concise: two designs, two colorways each. The first, a graphic of a large skull with flaming “Palace” for eyes plastered on the front of the sweater, arriving in either black or white. The other, “Palace dello Sportivo” with cursive text dashed across the chest, and comes in either navy/white or peach/red. While one may ponder the need for sweater weather apparel in summer, keep in mind that a blast of snow just hit parts of the U.S. over Mother’s Day weekend.
Palace’s Summer 2020 collection is set for an online-only global release starting May 15, 11 a.m. EDT at the brand’s official webstore, and in Japan and China May 16, 11 a.m. JST/CST on its Japan webstore and its “Palace_Skateboards” WeChat store respectively. For more from the latest drop, make sure to check out other offerings in the following categories:


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A newly discovered point-of-sale (PoS) malware featuring a modular approach in execution is currently targeting businesses in North America, Trend Micro researchers warn.
Dubbed MajikPOS, the malware is capable of stealing information from the compromised systems, just as other POS threats do, but its modular approach sets it apart. MajikPOS’s initial attacks reportedly started at the end of January 2017.
Named after its command and control (C&C) panel, the malware “needs only another component from the server to conduct its RAM scraping routine,” Trend Micro says. The security researchers also reveal that MajikPOS’s operators use a combination of PoS malware and remote access Trojan (RAT) to attack their targets.
The actors illicitly gain access to the victims’ endpoints using Virtual Network Computing (VNC) and Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), along with easy-to-guess username and password combinations. Command-line FTP (File Transfer Protocol), and sometimes a modified version of Ammyy Admin (named VNC_Server.exe or Remote.exe, only the file manager capability was used) were also abused to install MajikPOS. The tools used in these attacks were usually downloaded from free file-hosting sites.
First, the attackers fingerprint their targets, after which they attempt to gain access using generic credentials or via brute force. In some cases, they used RATs previously installed on the system. Common to these attacks was the fact that the RATs were installed on the victims’ machines between August and November, 2016.
MajikPOS was written using the .NET framework, uses encrypted communication to avoid detection, and leverages open RDP ports for intrusion, the same as other related threats, such as Operation Black Atlas. In some instances, the malware’s operators used common lateral movement hacking tools, which suggest they attempted to gain further access to the victim’s network.
After installation, the malware contacts its C&C server to register the infected system, and to receive a configuration file with three entries to be used in later steps. The C&C panel on the server is called Magic Panel, and the researchers discovered two of them.
MajikPOS’s RAM scraping component is called Conhost.exe and is responsible for finding credit card data on the victim’s machine. The malware seeks information on cards such as American Express, Diners Club, Discover, Maestro, Mastercard, and Visa. It verifies the credit card’s track data and then sends it to the C&C server via HTTP POST.
In addition to the Magic Panel servers, the researchers also managed to tie to the same registrant a series of websites used to sell stolen credit card information, as well as a couple of C&C panels for the malware. At the moment, the actor has around 23,400 stolen credit card tracks up for sale, priced between $9 and $39, depending on the type of card. Card data is available in bulk packages of 25, 50, and 100, priced at $250, $400, and $700, respectively.
Last month, a user called “MagicDumps” has been advertising some of these websites on carding forums, and Trend Micro notes that the same person has been also updating the forums for new dumps based on location, mostly in the U.S. and Canada.
“In separate incidents, we saw a command-line tool abused to deploy MajikPOS, along with other PoS malware. MajikPOS is also notable with how it tries to hide by mimicking common file names in Microsoft Windows,” researchers say, adding that the threat “is a reflection of the increasing complexity that bad guys are predicted to employ in their malware to neuter traditional defenses.”
According to Trend Micro, properly configured chip-and-pin credit cards with end-to-end encryption (Europay, MasterCard and Visa – EMVs) shouldn’t be affected by the threat, but terminals that don’t support them are at risk. U.S. has adopted EMVs following the implementation of the EMV Liability Shift in October 2015, which resulted in an increase in online fraud in the country.
“While businesses and consumers across the country are increasingly deploying and using chip-based PoS terminals, many merchants, for instance, still haven’t implemented the PIN part of the chip-and-PIN process. Although the use of EMV Chip-and-PIN credit cards is not a silver bullet, EMVs are still a more secure alternative compared to magnetic stripe-based credit cards that are most affected by PoS malware like MajikPOS,” Trend Micro says.


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SecureSeal Systems Ltd has announced a unique partnership with leading European tracking technology company Frotcom International to launch a ground-breaking wireless trailer monitoring service that will transform logistics.
London-based SecureSeal Systems, part of the OEM Group of Companies, has agreed a deal to integrate its very latest wireless RF trailer monitoring technology with the Portuguese company’s flagship telematics in-cab system, providing customers around the globe with cutting-edge equipment for checking on both the security and environment of their goods in transit.
SecureSeal Systems’ world-renowned SecureSeal reusable security seal is already standard specification on transport fleets for some of the largest retailers in the world such as Walmart Brazil, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Massmart and many others.
By also introducing the new cutting-edge SecureRF range, which includes wireless temperature, door and security seal sensors, Frotcom’s upgraded tracking kit significantly increases the number of specialised applications that are available to fleet managers and security professionals, particularly critical for the likes of chilled and frozen food suppliers and fashion and department store retailers.
The first pilot of the combined technology is running in Portugal with supermarket group Sonae, an existing SecureSeal customer, monitoring the security seal and temperature of their trailers directly into the fleet’s Frotcom telematics in-cab system.
Frotcom’s chief executive officer, Valerio Marques, said, "This new partnership gives our customers the opportunity to monitor their security seal as well as other components of the trailer, directly with the Frotcom system, without the hassle of installation wiring."
Cameron Grant, Managing Director of SecureSeal, added: "Frotcom’s integration of wireless door, temperature and security-seal sensors provides their customers with new unique possibilities. Reliability is everything in trailer monitoring and that’s why switching from wired-in to wireless RF is the key to success. This pooling of resources by SecureSeal Systems and Frotcom represents true innovation."
This new partnership with SecureSeal Systems Ltd goes hand in hand with the launch of Frotcom UK, and makes the Frotcom telematics system the only one on the market providing a fully integrated RF monitoring service when using the advanced 868MHz RF equipment.
The deal with Frotcom represents another significant breakthrough for award-winning Enfield company SecureSeal Systems and recognises the OEM Group’s commitment to making the transportation of goods on the highways safer through continued product development in the field of logistics security.
SecureSeal Systems was established in 1976 and is one of the world’s largest distributors of transportation controls and indicative mechanisms across a large range of applications. Frotcom has been a global provider of vehicle tracking systems since 1996 it is based in Portugal and is currently sold in over 30 countries worldwide.


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‘Squid Game’ Star Ho-yeon Jung is Louis Vuitton’s New Ambassador
The hottest new star of Netflix’s Squid Game, Ho-yeon Jung is named as Louis Vuitton’s newest global ambassador.
Rising star Ho-yeon Jung of the recent Netflix phenomenon, Squid Game, is now Louis Vuitton’s Global Ambassador for fashion, watches, and jewellery.
Jung plays North Korean Kang Sae-byeok in the hit psychological thriller and has since become the most followed Korean actor on Instagram, overtaking veteran actress Song Hye-kyo and model Lee Sung-kyung, with 15.8 million followers at the time of writing. Her career originally started in fashion modelling for Louis Vuitton’s ready-to-wear campaign in 2017 and also walked for its runway.
Jung also had an appearance on Korea’s Next Top Model — where she came in as runner-up — and starred in shoots for Vogue Girl Korea, Nylon Korea, and ELLE Wedding. She has also featured as the cover star for Vogue Japan, Vogue Korea, W Korea, and Harper’s Bazaar Korea.
- READ MORE: The Rise of Asian Brand Ambassadors
Regarding the appointment, Nicolas Ghesquière said: “I immediately fell in love with [Ho-yeon]’s great talent and fantastic personality, and I am looking forward to starting this new chapter of the journey we started at Louis Vuitton a few years ago.”
The breakout star is wearing a beautiful double-breasted coat and a pair of slingback pumps in the campaign image. Speaking to Soompi, she said: “It is an honour to mark my beginnings as an actress with Louis Vuitton after having worked with them as a model. I’m looking forward to every moment I will experience with Louis Vuitton as their global ambassador.”
She will be joining a long list of Asian luxury brand ambassadors. Other Asian ambassadors include Cartier’s Gong Li and Jackson Wang, Bvlgari’s Yang Yang, Fendi’s Xu Kai, and Tiffany and Co’s Jackson Yee.
For more fashion reads, click here.


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Westmoreland County Transit Authority launches mobile ticketing ability
Westmoreland County Transit Authority bus riders can now pay fares via smart phones.
Authority officials announced Tuesday a mobile ticketing app has been launched to expand the agency’s ability to accept cashless fares.
The app, WestMore Tix, can be downloaded through Google Play or the Apple App Store.
Passengers who use the app can pay for rides using a credit or debit card or via digital payment services such as Masterpass and Apple Pay. Monthly, 10-trip and single passes for all three travel zones part of the authority’s fixed-route bus service throughout Westmoreland County and into Pittsburgh are available. Once purchased, passengers activate their tickets and then show them to the driver when boarding the bus.
“This will not only help to modernize our operation, but it will also offer the riders of Westmoreland Transit a convenient and immediate way to purchase tickets,” said Meghan Yuhouse, the authority’s director of operations. “We are excited to be deploying Masabi’s market-leading mobile ticketing platform and providing our riders with seamless transit access through seamless ticket purchase anytime, anywhere.”
Masabi, the company that operates the digital-ticketing system, will be paid an 8% fee from all fares purchased through its app. The authority made no initial financial investment for the system.
Passengers will still be able to pay bus fares with cash or through the existing ConnectCard system that was installed last year, Yuhouse said.
Authority officials said technical issues have marred the ConnectCard system since it was first implemented as part of a $558,000 project with the Port Authority of Allegheny County, to use the cashless fare system on local buses. About 60% of the authority’s bus riders currently use the ConnectCard system.
“We still have a large problem with the ConnectCard product being pushed to the actual card,” Yuhouse said.
As a result, since September, the authority has refused to pay the Massachusetts company that operates the ConnectCard system its $30,000 annual maintenance fee.
Rich Cholodofsky is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Rich at 724-830-6293, [email protected] or via Twitter .